CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

▶ Across

1. One such as Gabriel, found in a Russian port (9)

5. It's a tailless pinniped, in the main (3) 7. How to fleece one for a castle (4)

8. It can transport cone, very awkwardly (8)

10. Was flattered to find one's toast had been spread (8)

11. Put it away, or he'll get away without having bought a ticket (4)

13. Gratuity given to a favourite for a fur cape (6)

15. When small Reynard might box and endlessly cuff him (3-3)

18. A right to employ a piece of trickery (4) 19. Being against one's frame, it will fight infection (8)

22. Affable way cigars are handed out around the Open University (8)

23. Money order that will disappear when one is right inside (4)

24. It is expected to be what one is owed (3) 25. Plant, ever-changing, is widespread (9)

▶ Friday's solution

▶ Down

1. Tumbler from the bar, and coat provided for one (7)

2. A nail that's not to be cast till May is out (5)

3. He produces plants in a long row ergonomically (6)

4. It is vivid, not being recorded (4) 5. Checking bleeding in City street, using phosphorus (7)

6. It points the way coming from Bow perhaps (5)

9. Control of the pound always follows it (5)

12. One might fool with a large-format book (5)

14. What it costs to mail a postal order gets complicated (7)

16. Refuse to deal with a land agent in Ireland (7)

17. Put up with the rude headless men who move around (6)

18. I'd followed the well-boring plant without bending (5)

20. Oil one used when in love maybe (5) 21. Fifty, that little devil is drooping (4) Across 1. Invade 4. Crocus 9. Cartoon 10. Lodge 11. Iris 12. Sing 13. Rod 15. Neon 16. Stop 19. Arc 21. Vane 22. Belt 24. Oriel 25. Collude 26. Yelled 27. Caress Down 1. Incriminatory 2. Version 3. Drop 5. Relegate 6. Cedar 7. Steadfastness 8. Snail 14. Convulse 17. Presume 18. Snack 20. Chill 23. Flea